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Police crackdown on drink and drugs

Cleveland and Durham police have been cracking down on drink and drug driving. Credit: PA Wire

59 people put their lives and the lives of innocent road users at risk during the recent summer drink and drug drive campaign.

Despite repeated warnings, 6% of 980 people breathalysed across the Cleveland and Durham force areas were positive, refused or failed to provide during June.

This year’s campaign coincided with the World Cup tournament, when some fixtures were being shown late at night due to the time difference.

Officers placed an extra focus on those drivers out in their cars the morning after a number of matches. Of 344 people breathalysed between 6am and 11am, five of these were positive, refused of failed to provide, equating to 1.5%.

“When compared to last year’s summer campaign, we have seen the number of people getting behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol increase.

"It is unacceptable that 59 people selfishly decided to risk their own lives, as well as the lives of their passengers and other innocent road users.

"We continuously repeat our warnings throughout the whole year and it is disappointing to see the numbers increase.

"Those that are found to be driving under the influence of drink or drugs will be dealt with robustly and can fully expect to be put before the courts.

"We will continue with these operations in order to make our roads as safe as we possibly can.”